The earlier the better. But no matter the stage, we can help make the most of reclaimed materials. Whether your project is still in idea mode, mid-construction or in value engineering, we can help you increase your reclaimed material use.

How does LEED/USGBC define reused and reclaimed material?

It’s simple: reused and reclaimed materials must have been used previously in some application to qualify for LEED Material Reuse credits 3.1 and 3.2. The materials don’t necessarily need to have history in a building, but they must be previously used somewhere.

What LEED credits do you help achieve?

We provide materials that contribute to Materials and Resources credits 3.1 and 3.2 Material Reuse, as well as Innovation Credit for Exemplary Performance. We work to provide materials within the 500-mile radius to contribute to MR credits 5.1 and 5.2 Regional Materials. When reclaimed material options are not available, we can source and supply FSC options that contribute to the MRc7 credit.

How does shipping work?

PlanetReuse handles shipping of materials between the vendor/supplier and the end user (the owner, general contractor or subcontractor). Our relationships with carriers ensure we receive the best pricing.

What advantage do you offer over other single-source material suppliers?

Our national network of quality, diverse material suppliers is the key. The result is economical pricing and a wider variety of materials, all at lower cost than a single source material supplier. We supplement this with a broad base of knowledge and real-world experience that lets us navigate the industry as a trusted expert and leader. We not only provide the materials, we take the guesswork out of the process by offering you insight on how to best to use them.

How is quality control handled?

We work with qualified demolition and deconstruction professionals to provide representative samples, photos and documentation. PlanetReuse offers an additional level of quality control to ensure materials meet not just project requirements but also your expectations.

What kind of warranty is provided on reused materials?

For the majority of cases, reused materials are sold “as-is” and do not come with a warranty. If your project requires a warranty for a specific material, let us know and we’ll work to meet your needs.

How much variance can I expect with reclaimed materials?

Coloring, texture, finish and other properties can vary from source to source. PlanetReuse works with suppliers to lock in quantities to ensure there are enough materials in the color range, species, etc. to provide full orders. We also provide samples to display the expected variance across the order.

How do reclaimed materials perform compared to new?

Reclaimed materials typically perform equal to or better than new materials in reliability and performance. As they’ve already been through many of the cycles that can cause instability, reclaimed materials do not shrink, shift or swell as much as some new materials.

What are the payment terms for reclaimed materials that PlanetReuse brokers?

Payment terms are established on a per-project basis. A 50 percent deposit is typically required to secure the material and begin fabrication of the finished product. The remainder is due upon either confirmation of storage in an insured facility (if the project is not ready for the materials) or delivery of the material to the project site.

How do you guarantee materials are truly reclaimed?

The experienced, vetted professionals in our network understand the need for accurate documentation of material origination. Would you believe we truly love the documentation process? We’ll assemble everything you need for the LEED/Living Building Challenge binder submittal.

Do you compete with ReStore or other similar not-for-profits?

Far from competing with ReStores, Community Forklift, Rebuilding Exchange and other not-for-profits, we partner with these organizations to help source and deconstruct projects. We help them accept commercial materials and quantities they would otherwise have to send away, enabling the creation of more green jobs and generation of additional revenue. Together, we divert tons of materials from the landfill.

Do salvaged materials like sinker reclaimed or urban reclaimed count for reuse credits?

With LEED 2009, sinker reclaimed materials (trees that have been underwater for hundreds of years) or disaster recovered materials (such as trees uprooted by tornadoes or hurricanes) are not eligible. We’re hard at work lobbying for their inclusion, because we believe harvesting these trees meets the intention of the credit by diverting materials from landfills and preventing the use of new resources.

Are you certified to present for AIA and/or USGBC CEUs?

Soon! We have a long of history of delivering presentations that have been successfully submitted for Continuing Education Units (CEUs) by the hosting firm or conference. Please contact us to schedule a lunch and learn, seminar, conference, panel, webinar or other educational opportunity.

It doesn’t hurt—it helps. Reused material is in the plus column when striving to achieve LEED MRc7 credit. We can walk you through the entire process. Just let us know how we can help.

Do you work on residential projects?

Yes, though the majority of our projects are commercial. We provide consulting and brokering service for a wide range of efforts.

How do you make money?

Depending on the project, we serve as a consultant or a materials broker. As a broker we earn a fee upon sale, which is incorporated into the material cost. Even with our fee, the costs associated with reclaimed materials are most often less than new. On projects where the need for our expertise in incorporating reclaimed materials is greater, we work as a consultant on a lump sum or hourly basis.

How can you help me find a home for my reusable materials?

We make it easy for you to donate and sell reused materials. Learn more about how to sell and how to donate what you have.

What info do you need to help me sell my stuff?

While you may not have every detail, the type of information below helps us find a buyer for your materials. Have stuff to sell? Get started.

Representative photos of the material (before and after deconstruction/demolition)

Representative samples

Quantities and dimensions

Thorough material description, including species, grade, etc.

Availability date (in warehouse currently, when will it be available to remove, ship, etc.)

What are the different cuts and grades of lumber?

The three general cuts of lumber are plainsawn, riftsawn and quartersawn. When a board is cut from a tree, its length is cut parallel to the trunk, ensuring the strength of the grain is aligned with the length of the board. However, the grain pattern at the end of the board can follow one of the three typical patterns, providing insights into future behavior. For more information regarding lumber cuts and grades, head to wisegeek.com. Details on lumber grading can be found at woodbin.com.

How do you calculate Board Feet (BF)?

Board feet are a measurement of lumber volume. One board foot is the equivalent of a board one inch thick x one foot wide x one foot long—or 144 cubic inches of wood. The two basic BF calculations are:

Note that board footage is typically calculated nominally, in that 2x6 is nominally equal to 1 board foot per lineal foot, while the actual size of the board is 1.5”x5.5”.

Do you work on residential projects?

Yes, though the majority of our projects are commercial. We provide consulting and brokering service for a wide range of projects.

Do you compete with ReStore or other similar not-for-profits?

Far from competing with ReStores, Community Forklift, Rebuilding Exchange and other not-for-profits, we partner with these organizations to help source and deconstruct projects. We help them accept commercial materials and quantities they would otherwise have to send away, enabling the creation of more green jobs and generation of additional revenue. Together, we divert tons of materials from the landfill.

What is PlanetReuse Marketplace?

PlanetReuse Marketplace is the place to find all things reclaimed, reused or remade for your home. It makes finding that perfect piece as easy as browsing big box store sites. (Even better, actually, because the materials are economically and environmentally responsible.) Buying reused contributes to the diversion of more than 250 million tons from landfills every year. Find a Reseller near you or browse inventory by category.

Does using this site cost anything?

Nope! If you are a Reseller interested in showcasing your stuff, our mobile app will allow you to post items to the Marketplace, your website, your Facebook page and your Twitter account…all in about 43 seconds. Download the app here for iOS or Android.

Why should I buy reused or salvaged materials?

They usually cost less than new, and many are in new or almost new condition. Reused materials often have personality, with an interesting story to match. Plus, buying reused keeps valuable resources out of a landfill and in our economy where they can benefit local craftspeople, nonprofits and small businesses. It’s a win, win, win…win. Learn more about the benefits of supporting the reuse economy.

Why is PlanetReuse Marketplace needed?

Building materials account for as much as 40 percent of U.S. landfill waste. Reuse centers work hard to divert these materials, but it can be time-consuming for homeowners to track down the items. Marketplace connects sellers and buyers to make reuse as easy as buying new. That encourages more people to donate instead of ditch and deconstruct instead of demolish. Together we can reduce construction/demolition waste by 25 percent. That’s like salvaging 68 Empire State Buildings each year!

I'm not seeing enough results. What do I do?

Try expanding your search a bit. Use fewer descriptive words in the search box. Looking for a chaise lounge? Try typing sofa or couch. If you are looking for a very specific item, your perfect fit may not be in the inventory at the time of your search. Inventories are updated frequently, so check back often.

Why are some descriptions so vague?

Resellers have thousands of unique items in a continuously rotating inventory. To streamline the online inventory process, descriptions default to general information with additional photos and information added when possible.

Who are resellers?

Most PlanetReuse Marketplace resellers fit into one of the following categories:

Reuse Centers are like thrift shops for building materials. They accept used and surplus materials from homeowners, demolition companies and contractors. Most reuse centers resell those donated materials at 40 to 60 percent off the price of new.

Resellers are craftspeople who upcycle used furniture and other items to create fresh, fun and functional home decor. Many welcome special requests and custom projects.

Design and Construction Professionals often have surplus and/or reusable materials left over after projects are completed. They post these materials to help recoup costs and keep materials out of the landfill.

Reuse centers accept a wide range of donations, though each center has its own criteria. Use our find a reseller tool and select Donate for specifics on pick-up, drop-off and items accepted.

What is PlanetReuse Marketplace?

PlanetReuse Marketplace connects buyers and sellers of reused materials. For resellers, it makes it ridiculously simple to reach more customers by allowing you to post inventory on the Marketplace, your website, Facebook and Twitter in about 43 seconds. (Yep, we timed it.) For shoppers, it makes buying reclaimed and remade materials as easy as browsing big box store sites.

How does it work for resellers?

Resellers use our mobile application to create a store and post items on the Marketplace. Buyers can search to find materials that are easy on the wallet and the environment. Then, customers can contact resellers to coordinate purchase, pick-up or shipping.

How can I market my items on PlanetReuse Marketplace, my website and social media in seconds?

Well, that’s exactly what we do. Let us help you market and sell more inventory!